Nutrition Labeling and Education Act

Nutrition Labeling and Education Act

The 1990 Federal Nutrition Labeling and Education Act (NLEA) gives the FDA the power to require nutrition labeling for most foods, including calorie, fat, cholesterol, and sodium content. Prior to NLEA passage, labeling laws only covered protein, vitamin, and mineral content. NLEA also gave the agency power to inspect food products that make health claims (no cholesterol, low fat) to ensure that they live up to federal standards. The law, which went into effect in 1994, initially did not cover restaurants. Products regulated by the Department of Agriculture, like fresh meat, are exempt. In 1993 the FDA issued additional regulations in order to include restaurants under the provisions of the NLEA. The additional rules were passed in 1996.

Cry Wolf Quotes

The heavy hand of government in the activities of Americans When we have a lot of people in Eastern Europe trying to throw off the yoke of central government, now might be the time to ask Americans 'How much government do you want?'

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George Bush Sr.’s Agriculture Secretary Clayton Yeutter. The New York Times

We have some real qualms with the benefits of mandatory labeling for produce….[while] smart consumers will recognize the benefits…it's staggering what people don't know.

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John McClung, vice president of public affairs for the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association. The Washington Post